Welcome

Welcome to issue number six of The 3 Minute Golfer. This FREE, weekly publication is here to help every golfer improve their mental game and their personal wellbeing.

Enjoying the newsletter? Why not subscribe to our Facebook and Instagram!

In this issue:

• Smokey…a Bold Mental Style

• Wellness Tip: Laugh It Up

• Mental Demons Q+A

• In Person Events - Book The 3 Minute Golfer

Not already a subscriber? Subscribe here.

Smokey…a Bold Mental Style

In golf, the mindset of hitting the ball as hard and as long as you can…commonly referred to as "smoking the ball"…often matches the personality traits of assertive people, with a higher need for aggression, but not always in a negative sense. Studies in personality psychology have shown that individuals with a high aggression trait are more likely to engage in risky and forceful actions, and this can manifest on the golf course as a tendency to attack every shot with maximum power. While such a style might yield some awe-inspiring moments, it may also lead to frustration, inconsistency, and mounting scores.

The Aggressive Mindset

Players who embody this aggressive approach are fearless…or at least seem to be. They might take on narrow fairways with a driver when a hybrid or iron would do, aim directly for the flag even when it’s guarded by hazards, or attempt heroic shots through dense trees instead of taking the safer route. Their mantra is simply “go big or go home.”

This approach, while exciting, does have its pitfalls. It often stems from a cocktail of super confidence…touching on over-confidence, adrenaline, and perhaps a dash of bravado. The brain, as psychology reminds us, loves to recall moments of glory while conveniently forgetting failures. That one-time Smokey hit a miraculous shot through a narrow gap stays in their memory forever, while the many times they clattered into trees fades into the deep recesses of “never happened”.

The Psychology of Overconfidence

At the core of this style lies a cognitive bias. Overconfident players tend to overestimate their skills and underestimate the challenges posed by a shot. They often fall victim to the illusion of control, believing they can bend the game to their will.

Research in sports psychology, including the Yerkes–Dodson law, highlights how overarousal, triggered by excitement or pressure, can impede performance. For aggressive players, the adrenaline rush from attempting a spectacular shot can disrupt their focus, leading to a tightening grip, rushed swing, and poor outcomes.

The Cost of Heroics

When a player consistently opts for high-risk shots, the cost is twofold:

• Physical: Increased likelihood of ending up in hazards, roughs, or a poor position

• Mental: Mounting frustration when the heroics fail that may lead to a downward spiral in confidence 

This is the trap of the “desperate mind,” where stress clouds judgment, and the player makes decisions based on hope rather than logic.

Pro Tip

Being aggressive isn’t inherently bad…it’s the unchecked recklessness that causes problems. Controlled aggression can be a powerful weapon when tempered with strategy. Here are a few tips for the Smokey looking to reign in their overly bold tendencies.

• Pause for Perspective: Before pulling the trigger on a risky shot, consider the odds. Is the potential reward worth the risk? The gambler says “Yes”, the golfer says “No”

• Play the Percentages: A chip back to the fairway might seem mundane, but it often sets up a better opportunity than forcing an impossible shot

• Practice Visualisation: Mentally rehearse shots before committing, focusing on where you want the ball to go, not just how far you want to hit it

The Smokey style of play adds excitement to the game and can lead to extraordinary moments. But golf rewards consistency and smart decision-making more than just flair. Balancing boldness with thoughtful strategy can transform a reckless golfer into a formidable competitor.

So, the next time you’re tempted to swing out of your boots or attempt the impossible, pause and ask yourself: “Is this the smart play?” Controlled aggression, paired with a touch of discipline, can sooth the mind and lead to consistently better scores.